Book Club Discussion Questions
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Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!
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Who is the stolen queen? What does the book's title mean to you?
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We see Charlotte exploring in the Valley of the Kings, as well as managing the careful moving and conservation efforts for the ancient pieces. In what ways, if any, did this book expand your understanding of museum and conservation work?
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The debate regarding the repatriation of stolen or looted artifacts continues today. How do you feel about institutions like the Met or the British Museum returning antiquities to their country of origin? What if there's a chance they might be sold to a private buyer or placed in storage? Do these items belong to the country they came from or to humanity in general?
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Annie has always taken care of her mother, Joyce. How does their relationship shape Annie's personality and life?
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The Met's Egyptian Art collection and the Costume Institute represent two very different divisions of the museum. How are they different? Is there any crossover between them? Which one would you prefer to work in?
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When Charlotte discovers the entrance to the tomb in Egypt, she has to contend with the skepticism of Zimmerman and selfishness of Leon. In what ways do the men around her impact her work then and later?
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Compare Charlotte's romantic involvements: Henry, Everett, and Mark.
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Charlotte is sixty years old and Annie is nineteen. How does their age difference impact how they interact? In what ways do their ages impact their careers?
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The history of the female pharaoh Hathorkare (inspired by the real life ruler Hatshepsut) is debated by scholars. The novel delves into the importance of reclaiming women's
contributions to history. How does that apply to both Hathorkare and Charlotte?
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Which antiquity described in the book was your favorite. Why?
Unless otherwise stated, this discussion guide is reprinted with the permission of Dutton. Any page references refer to a USA edition of the book, usually the trade paperback version, and may vary in other editions.
